THERE is universal support in the local area for a new Torness power station, claimed a Labour peer, as it was revealed that the UK Government is considering plans to build a nuclear reactor in Scotland.

The SNP, which has governed Scotland since 2007, has consistently opposed the principle of new nuclear stations in the country and believes Scotland has enough capacity in the renewables sector to meet future energy demands.

But Scottish Secretary Alister Jack told a Westminster committee yesterday that he has asked ministers at the Department for Energy and Net Zero to plan for a nuclear reactor to be built in Scotland as part of a UK-wide programme.

He said he expected a “Unionist regime” to be in power in Scotland by 2026.

SNP MP Tommy Sheppard said afterwards that the move showed how Westminster thought that Scotland was a country that should “get in line and know its place”.

He insisted the country does not need “expensive” nuclear power when it has “abundant” natural energy resources.

Jack appeared yesterday morning before the Lords Constitution Committee, and was being questioned by Labour peer Lord Foulkes, who said “everyone around Torness” – currently Scotland’s only nuclear power plant – “is keen to see a new Torness”.

The Scottish secretary replied: “On the small nuclear reactors, I have asked the energy minister to plan for one in Scotland, because I believe in 2026 we’ll see a Unionist regime again in Holyrood, and they will move forward on that matter.”

The power station, near Dunbar, has about 550 full-time EDF employees and more than 180 full-time contractors.

Torness has been generating power since 1988 but is due to close in 2028.

It is Scotland's last remaining nuclear power station.

Responsibility for energy is reserved to Westminster, but the Scottish Parliament has control over planning and environmental regulations, and the SNP has previously said it would block any moves to build new nuclear reactors in Scotland.

Calls have been made in recent years for an extension to the lifespan of the power station or for consideration to be given to a new nuclear power station at the site.